What to Expect in a First Meeting With a Divorce Attorney
Divorce proceedings are complex and can be challenging for all parties involved. Throughout it, several legal matters must be taken care of. These are matters of great importance that can impact your future as well as the future of your family. It is because of this that they should not be taken lightly. During this time, it is crucial to retain the services of an experienced New Jersey divorce attorney for assistance. This begins with an initial consultation, during which it is important to know what to expect.
What Information Should I Take With Me?
When meeting with a divorce attorney, it is important to be prepared and bring any necessary documentation. What is needed can vary depending on the attorney. However, the attorney needs to have a basic understanding of you, your spouse, and the issues in your case. For example, if divorce has already been filed, you should bring a copy of the complaint for divorce to the consultation. As finances are a significant part of divorce proceedings, it can also be beneficial to have evidence of both you and your spouse’s income. This can be done with the following documentation:
- Recent pay stubs
- Individual and business tax returns, W-2 forms, and 1099s
- Recent bank statements
What Can I Expect During a Consultation?
Generally, first consultations with a divorce attorney can last approximately one hour. During this time, the attorney will ask a variety of questions pertaining to the marriage. This can include the length, the income and employment history of both you and your spouse, and assets or debts held, if you have children, etc. The information you may give to your attorney can include some of the following:
- A brief history of the marriage
- Background information about yourself, your spouse, and your children
- Your immediate situation
- Your intentions and goals regarding your situation
- What information you are seeking from the consultation
The advice you may receive in a consultation can vary depending on the nature of your circumstances and the divorce. For example, you may currently be in a divorce, planning to file right away, or simply preparing for a divorce in the future.
Can I Bring Support?
Going through a divorce is a difficult and emotional time. It is because of this that it is crucial to have a support system during this time. This can include a consultation meeting with an attorney. This individual can be a source of support and someone to lean on. They can also help in listening, asking questions, and taking notes to assist you later on.
Contact our Firm
If you need an experienced legal team to guide you through your divorce, contact Townsend, Tomaio & Newmark L.L.C today.